Swedish Institute Scholarships for Global Professionals
Introduction
Are you ready to drive lasting change in your home country, while earning a world-class master’s degree in Sweden? The Swedish Institute (SI) invites candidates from 33 eligible countries to apply for the Scholarship for Global Professionals — a fully-funded opportunity to study in Sweden and build your leadership credentials.
Why this scholarship matters
Sweden is investing in global talent with the aim of forging strong partnerships and advancing sustainable development globally. Through this scholarship you’ll get access to a top-tier education, engage in cutting-edge research, and join a vibrant network of emerging leaders. Svenska institutet
The scholarship is designed not just to help you study — but to support you in driving real-world impact back home.
What’s covered
If awarded this scholarship, you’ll receive:
- Full tuition fee coverage for your chosen 1- or 2-year master’s programme in Sweden. Svenska institutet
- A monthly allowance of SEK 12,000 to assist with living expenses. Svenska institutet
- A travel grant (SEK 15,000; SEK 10,000 for certain countries) for students coming from outside Sweden. Svenska institutet
- Membership in the SI Network for Global Professionals (NFGP) — a platform to collaborate, learn and build lifelong connections with peers from around the world. Svenska institutet
- After the scholarship ends, you’ll join the Sweden Alumni Network for ongoing professional development. Svenska institutet
Note: The scholarship does not include insurance, family-member support, or application fees. Svenska institutet
Who can apply?
To be eligible, you must:
- Be a citizen of one of the 33 eligible countries (e.g., Bangladesh, Brazil, Egypt, Kenya, Nigeria, Peru, Thailand, Uganda, Vietnam, Zambia — and others). Svenska institutet
- Apply for an English-taught master’s programme at a Swedish university that is eligible for SI scholarships. Svenska institutet
- Be liable to pay tuition fees (i.e., you are not exempt from fees). Svenska institutet
- Demonstrate a solid track record of work experience and leadership (either employment or civil society engagement). Svenska institutet
You must also not hold a Swedish or EU/EEA citizenship, have already been awarded a Swedish Institute scholarship, or have lived in Sweden more than two years cumulatively (among other restrictions). Svenska institutet.
Application timeline & process
Here’s how the application process works:
- 15 Oct 2025 – 15 Jan 2026: Apply for master’s programmes via the central Swedish university admissions portal. Svenska institutet
- 9 Feb 2026 – 25 Feb 2026: The SI scholarship application window opens — submit your scholarship application during this period. Svenska institutet
- 25 Feb – 25 Mar 2026: SI conducts screening and evaluation of applications. Svenska institutet
- 26 Mar 2026: University admissions results announced; SI receives information. Svenska institutet
- By 23 Apr 2026: Final selection of scholarship recipients will be published. Svenska institutet
Because the process is highly competitive, it’s strongly recommended that applicants prepare early and don’t wait until the last minute to submit their materials. Svenska institutet.
Tips for a strong application
- Articulate clearly how your chosen programme aligns with your home country’s sustainable development goals. Svenska institutet
- Ensure your work and leadership experience is well-documented, and uses SI’s official templates (CV, proof of experience, references) when available. Svenska institutet
- Choose eligible master’s programmes (to be published by mid-November 2025) and make sure your application to the programme and the scholarship are aligned. Svenska institutet
- Avoid missing any deadlines or failing to use the correct forms/stamps — such mistakes can lead to disqualification. Svenska institutet
Final thoughts
If you’re a mid-career or emerging leader from one of the eligible countries, aiming to deepen your expertise, expand your network and make tangible contributions in your region — this scholarship is a compelling opportunity. From world-class education to a global leadership network, the journey starts in Sweden. Don’t miss this chance
